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A tragic event has shaken the community of Bakersfield, California, after a one-year-old baby died and their two-year-old sibling was severely affected after being left alone inside a car, while their mother went to a medical spa in extreme temperatures exceeding 99 degrees Fahrenheit.
The Bakersfield Police Department reported that on Sunday afternoon, they received an emergency call alerting them about an unconscious baby in the 10 block of South Real Road, stated the network Univisión.
Upon arriving at the scene, the agents assisted the two minors trapped in the vehicle and immediately transported them to a local hospital. However, despite medical efforts, the one-year-old baby was pronounced dead shortly thereafter; his two-year-old brother is reported to be stable, according to the latest official report.
After a preliminary investigation, the mother of the minors was identified as Maya Hernández, 20 years old, who left the children inside the car for at least two hours in sweltering heat while she stayed at the spa.
The surviving child was placed in protective custody, and Hernández was arrested and taken to Lerdo prison, facing two charges of intentional child cruelty and one charge of involuntary manslaughter.
The Hispanic mother will appear before a court next Tuesday in a case that has sparked outrage and an urgent call from authorities not to leave minors unsupervised in vehicles, especially under extreme temperatures.
Frequently Asked Questions about Child Safety in Vehicles and Negligence
What are the risks of leaving children in a car during high temperatures?
Leaving children in a car in high temperatures can be deadly. Vehicles can heat up quickly, reaching dangerous temperatures that can cause heat strokes or even death within minutes. In 2024, 40 children died in the U.S. due to this reason.
What charges does Maya Hernández face for leaving her children in the car?
Maya Hernández faces charges of intentional child cruelty and involuntary manslaughter after leaving her children in a car under extreme heat, resulting in the death of her one-year-old baby.
What preventive measures do authorities recommend to avoid tragedies with children in cars?
Authorities recommend always checking the back seat before closing the vehicle, placing personal items in the back seat as a reminder, and locking the doors to prevent children from entering alone. Additionally, it is advised to teach children to honk the horn if they get trapped.
What is the Good Samaritan Law and how does it apply in cases of children in hot cars?
The Good Samaritan Law protects those who act in good faith to rescue children in danger, such as breaking a car window to save a child trapped inside. This protection aims to encourage citizen intervention in emergencies without fear of legal action.
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